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Introduction: A.
It’s so “status quo” to make New Year’s
Resolutions. 1.
Typically, some are realized (a sense of accomplishment!)
yet many others are never fulfilled. 2.
These resolutions typically center around our health:
losing weight, exercising daily, etc. 3.
How many have gone beyond self to focus on others?
Evangelism, edification, benevolence, etc. B.
When reflecting upon last year, did we live a “status
quo” Christian walk or one that is beyond? 1.
You see, our lives in Christ was never meant to be
“normal” because we’re a special people. 2.
As special people belonging to Christ our lives should be
far beyond what is regarded as the status quo. Discussion: I.
The
Status Quo For The World A.
Doing what everyone else does. 1.
Being kind to (loving, greeting) only those who are kind to
you. Lk.
6:32-34 2.
Doing easy things, the easy way, when its convenient. 3.
This is the way to destruction. Matt.
7:13-14 B.
Living an unfulfilled, luke-warm life in the Lord. 1.
It’s so easy to full ourselves into thinking this is
okay. 2.
Ultimately, a life like this needs repenting. Rev.
3:15-16, 19 II.
The
Status Quo for Christians - Beyond A.
In service to our Savior. Matt.
22:37 1.
Magnifying God’s name when others are ashamed. Psa.
34:1-3 2.
Worshipping Him beyond lip service. 3.
Serving Him as a daily living sacrifice. Rom.
12:1-2 B.
In service to our fellow man. Matt.
22:38 1.
Going the extra mile when others won’t. Matt.
5:38-42 2.
Showing kindness to those who cannot repay. Lk.
14:12-14 3.
Loving the unlovable. Matt.
5:43-47 C.
In other words We’re a special
people (1
Pet. 2:9) made by our Special Creator to do special things
(Eph.
2:10) for a special reason … the world beyond. Lk.
6:35 Conclusion: A. Don’t be satisfied with the status quo … it only leads to your destruction. B. Go beyond yourself and experience eternity in the making.
Glory
to God in the church by Christ Jesus
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